How to Change the Thermostat in a Dodge Durango
by Editorial TeamIf your Dodge Durango has an overheating problem, you may need to replace the thermostat. For Durango owners, this process is a bit involved, but once you remove all you need to remove to get to the thermostat, you'll need to decide if you want to stick with the factory-set 192-degree thermostat or install a lower-temperature one.
Step 1
Disconnect negative battery cable from the battery. Use a jack and jack stands or wheel ramps to raise the front of your Durango. Locate radiator draincock at left side of the bottom of the radiator, facing the rear of the Durango.
Step 2
Drain coolant into a suitable container. Allow reserve tank to empty, then remove radiator cap and continue draining. Save for reuse if coolant is relatively new and clean. For Dodge Durangos equipped with air-conditioning, remove the generator by loosening mounting bracket at the intake manifold.
Step 3
Use a socket wrench to loosen automatic belt tensioner on Dodge Durangos with 3.9, 5.2 or 5.9 liter engines. Turn tensioner assembly clockwise to remove belt. Take out mounting bolts for generator. Leave all wiring attached except for 4-wheel drive indicator lamp wiring at the rear of the generator.
Step 4
Follow the top radiator hose to the intake manifold if the engine of your Dodge Durango is 5.7 or 5.9 liter, and the bottom hose if the engine is 3.7 or 4.7 liter. Remove the tension hose clamp from the end of the radiator hose and pull hose off the thermostat housing.
Step 5
Remove two bolts from the thermostat housing cover and take off cover. Take out old gasket and thermostat. Clean residue from around the inside of the thermostat housing cover. Slide new thermostat into housing with spring side down. Place new gasket over thermostat.
Step 6
Replace the thermostat housing cover and reattach radiator hose. Reassemble belt tensioner and reattach generator. Add reserve or new coolant to the radiator. Run the Durango until the engine gets warm and check for leaks.
Tips
- A special clamp tool is usually needed to remove the tension clamp from the end of the radiator hose.
Things You'll Need
- Jack and jack stands or wheel ramps
- Container
- Socket/wrench
- Clamp tool
- Thermostat and gasket
Writer Bio
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